Plein Air Marsh, Hunting Island South Carolina

'Afternoon Marsh' 9x12

This painting was done on location at the Marsh Boardwalk on Hunting Island. Holly and Jayne asked if I wouldn't mind doing a 'paint along'. They were curious to see how I approach a painting. So we all set up under the shelter and chose our scene. The idea was that I would paint some and they would use the same technique and colors. It was a challenge because I had to remember to slow down enough so they could see what I was doing. The end result.....all three paintings looked different and I think they were happy about the whole experience. They actually thought they were learning something but truthfully it was me who was learning. I realized that I have no clue how I go about painting. I just get into a zone and something takes over. I don't know if I could explain why I chose a certain color or where I put a color. Interestingly enough when I got home I just happened to read an article about Susan Ogilvie. She at one point had the same realization. When she decided to figure out Why she painted the way she did...she felt that her paintings improved. I am trying to do this but I will make more of an effort.